Bad smell we think because we've been washing in cold water maybe there's a build-up we've tried running vinegar then bleach etc etc still musty is it a big deal to take apart so we can clean it thoroughly?

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When a moldy or musty smell develops in a washing machine, many times the smell is coming from the open areas of the agitator. Water along with soap and/or liquid softener sometimes splashes into an open agitator, and when the lid is closed it does not dry out. Instead, mold begins to form, and a musty smell wafts from inside the machine, even after the lid has been opened for an extended period of time. Until the mold is removed the washing machine will continue to smell bad, even if it is used and allowed to air dry with the lid open.The tub can also be the source of the smell. Lint can gather and collect in the holes, and when it does not dry fast enough it ends up smelling musty and moldy. Even the top of the rim can become moldy and musty, but proper cleaning can get rid of the odor.

So that said.To clean the machine,fill to just above the top row of holes in the tub.Add 2 cups of bleach.Let sit for 1-2 hours.Then let the machine run it`s wash cycle.Lastly use bleach water and a rag to wipe the machine down inside and out.If the agitator has a cup on top remove and clean with bleach.Leave the top open so the machine can dry.

Now it should smell better,if so use as normal,and leave the lid open when not in use.

pour 1/4 cup of bleach into the collection resevoir.

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all front load washers have the problem. Mold and a build up or dirt and soap and fabric softner cause s old musty smell. The low water use makes the machine dirty and build up inside. Run a few Hot water washes with out clothing, Run it empty ,(run your hot water neer your washer to get the cold water out of the house pipes) hot water and pour bleach in side, 2 or more cups. Keep doing it. When your not using washer leave the door open so air can get inside. Hot wash,es with bleach will keep it clean, also dont use fab softner.

spray motor and gear housing surrounding with insecticide, roaches may be nesting there that gives out the foul odor

Do a boil wash without clothes & detergents, with a cup of bicarbonate of soda in the soap drawer.

add about 4 cups of bleach to the washer run through the hottest wash cycle possible. allow to air dry overnight. then add 4 cups plain white vinegar and run through hottest cycles again. to ensure this doesn't happen again remove all wet item as soon as possible. any clothing items that smell musty can also be run through a vinegar wash using about 1/2 cup in the softener compartmen.

This problem is caused because the water does not get totally pumped out of the outer tub and sits in the bottom of the tub and in the front seals. Eventually a mildew type scum develops and causes the washer to stink and also impart the odor to clothes. Even though front loaders do use less water and energy, all of them have essentially the same design and therefore all will eventually develop this problem.
Run a load with just bleach (about 1 cup) and white vinegar (about 1 1/2 cups) poured directly into the washer with hot water and it seemed to help, but this does need to be repeated about once a month or so...

but with your wife's Asthma tho you could try
Typically the cause is the machine itself, but occasionally the water being used in the washer can be the source of the problem. If the smell resembles rotten eggs, you may need a water filtration system installed. After you eliminate any other possibilities, you can begin the treatment process. Create a mixture of baking soda and vinegar. Add 1/2 cup of baking soda to 2 cups of white distilled vinegar. 3Begin a wash cycle using the machine’s hottest setting. As the water rises, add the baking soda and vinegar mixture. Let the washing machine complete a full cycle. If you notice any residue that has been loosened, use a cloth to wipe the surface clean. Run a cold water cycle to complete the process. You should immediately notice that the smell has been neutralized.

What kind of smell is it?  If I can guess, I think it may be a musty or "locker-room" (sorry for bad memories) smell.  I have found that sometimes a change in detergent (or sometimes the same detergent you have been using for years) can cause build up and retain that musty smell.  I had to actually remove a inner basket completely and wash out both inner and outer drums to get rid of the funky smell.  She had used the same detergent for years.  Do you wash a lot of clothes in cold water?  This could also make the situation worse.  Try running a full empty load on hot with a bunch of bleach through the wash cycle, then stop the unit for a bit and let it soak and see if it clears up.  Also, try changing detergents and use a HE type soap.  HE causes very little sudding action, which in turn will stop the build up.  If this doesnt work, you may have to remove the inner tub and clean out both baskets (a lot of time, and need a special wrench, unless you know how to work it off).  Let me know if this helps any.   Jim